A celebration of dogs was marked in style as a popular annual event proved to be just 'perfect.'

Hundreds of people and their four-legged friends descended on the Benacre Estate once more as thousands of pounds was raised for charity.

The eighth annual Strutt Your Mutt event attracted the crowds to Benacre National Nature Reserve on Sunday, June 10 as funds were raised for a canine charity.

The popular sponsored walk and dog day was hosted by Wangford Veterinary Clinic. Organiser Jill Asquith said: 'It was a perfect day from start to finish and combined the love of dogs and the stunning Suffolk countryside to raise funds for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.'

Attractions included a two or five-mile sponsored dog walk around the Benacre Estate, stalls and entertainment aplenty, with the annual charity event described as having 'just the most amazing atmosphere.'

Ms Asquith said: 'It was great to see so many people supporting the event. We had perfect dog walking conditions too with glorious sunshine and a nice breeze meaning that it wasn't too warm for the dogs.'

Visitors taking part in the sponsored walks had the rare opportunity to enjoy areas of the estate that are not usually open to the public.

Ms Asquith said: 'Over 1,200 people completed the walk through Benacre National Nature Reserve, an area that was open especially for our event, thanks to the kindness of Lady Gooch. Adam Burrows, and the team from Natural England, did an excellent job in preparation for these truly beautiful walks, with the routes clearly marked, information on points of special interest, water for the dogs at intervals and a cup of tea was even provided for walkers halfway round.'

Those taking part in the walk were given a special rosette and goodie bag. Ms Asquith added: 'Back at Woodfarm Barn there was a real celebration of all things canine. It was probably our best and most action packed yet, with lots of activities such as the K9 Cross Country, fastest recall, the super dog challenge, fancy dress and 175 dogs took part in our Fun Dog Show which was judged by Tony Fenton. Some of the classes had more than 50 dogs enter!'

With the final total still being tallied, organisers are hoping it will be 'its best yet,' with a record sum raised for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

'A wonderful day!'

The dog named Best in Show was a Pointer called Morgan, owned by Neville Thorpe and Reserve Best in show was a Puggle called Bertie, who was owned by Gracie and Essie.

The Fastest Recall was won by Smudge with a time of 2.22. The Superdog Challenge was won by Louis Sampson-Williams with Cracker the Jack Russell.

A fun filled programme of entertainment in the main arena saw Sian and the Wonder Collies, Fens Falconry, The Essex and Suffolk Dog Training Team, The Lowestoft Dog Agility Team, Blythview Gundogs Display and the action packed Little Nippers Lurcher and Terrier Racing demonstration all entertain. Mini beast hunting and Dog Massage were among other activities.

Walter Stöhr, vet and owner of Wangford Veterinary Clinic, said: 'We have had a wonderful day. We have met hundreds of dogs and chatted to their owners that have come from all over the country to support the event and the charity'.